Date of Conferral

11-11-2024

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Bruce Lindsay

Abstract

Student retention at the study site community college had decreased, which negatively impacted funding. Increased student support that incorporates elements of the positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment (PERMA) model could improve retention rates. This mixed-methods case study examined the effectiveness of a mentoring program called the Well-Being Path Program (Path) at the community college, which incorporated elements of Seligman’s PERMA model. The data used for this study consisted of student exit surveys and the community college’s institutional enrollment, retention, and transfer data. Results showed that Path students had a higher average grade point average and transfer rate than non-Path students. The students rated the program highly in helping them achieve job-related skills, graduate, and obtain employment. Additionally, the Path students reported overall satisfaction with the program processes and access to resources. The findings highlighted how the community college can foster a supportive environment for its students, underscoring the role of public administration in effective program evaluation. It is recommended that the community college redesign its survey to evaluate elements of the PERMA model and administer it once per semester. Capturing student feedback can provide data for continuous program evaluation and design, ensuring the program empowers students from historically marginalized backgrounds, thereby potentially increasing retention and college completion.

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